85grain

85 grain is a designation used to describe the weight of a firearm bullet. A grain is a unit of mass equal to 1/7000 of a pound, and 85 grains is about 5.5 grams. In ammunition labeling, bullet weight is a primary factor affecting velocity, recoil, trajectory, and terminal performance.

Bullets weighing 85 grains are used in several centerfire rifle calibers and are considered a mid-range weight within those cartridge families. The exact ballistic behavior depends on the cartridge, bullet design, powder charge, and barrel length. In general, heavier bullets tend to maintain velocity and resist wind drift better than lighter ones, but they usually achieve lower muzzle velocities in the same cartridge compared with lighter bullets.

85-grain bullets are produced in multiple jacket styles to suit different applications, including full metal jacket (FMJ), hollow point (HP), hollow point boat tail (HPBT), and soft point varieties. They are available from a range of manufacturers and can be used for target shooting, varmint control, and certain hunting applications, depending on the specific cartridge and local regulations.

Reloading considerations include selecting appropriate powder charges, seating depths, and primers for 85-grain projectiles. Handloaders should consult manufacturer data and proven load recipes for the intended cartridge and firearm, and follow all safety guidelines to ensure safe operation and reliable performance.